São Paulo, Brazil – Unilever is seeking a Planning Data & Analytics Manager to lead demand planning and Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) initiatives across its Latin American operations. The position, based in São Paulo, reflects the multinational consumer goods company’s continued investment in data-driven decision-making within a key growth market.
The role, advertised on , is positioned within Unilever’s Integrated Operations structure and will focus on governance and framework development for demand planning. Unilever, which reaches 3.4 billion people daily in over 190 countries, emphasizes its commitment to “sustainable living commonplace” and believes that ethical business practices drive performance.
The Planning Data & Analytics Manager will be responsible for leading programs such as S&OP and FEU (Forecasting & Execution Unit), driving system adoption, and building standardized ways of working. A core function will be serving as the primary point of contact for all integrated forecasting programs throughout Latin America.
The position’s responsibilities extend to leading the FEU program across the region, collaborating with the PACE team (likely an internal Unilever program focused on process excellence) and supporting demand planners in adopting new methodologies and resolving challenges. The manager will also be tasked with establishing a standardized S&OP process aligned with agreed-upon business principles, measuring key performance indicators (KPIs), and assessing market maturity.
Data analytics will be central to the role, with the manager expected to provide crucial insights to inform Unilever’s S&OP strategy. Beyond process and analytics, the position also encompasses leadership of the demand planning team, acting as a process expert in integrated forecasting, and serving as a key liaison between various internal teams – including PACE, Demand Planners, and Integrated Planning & Demand (IPD) teams.
The successful candidate will be expected to drive change and implement new working methods within the planning organization, cooperating with senior leadership on both local and regional levels. Unilever’s job posting highlights the importance of fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where team members are motivated to deliver results with passion and continuously learn and grow.
To succeed in this role, candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree and demonstrable experience in data analysis and science, specifically within the context of S&OP processes. Experience with platform and data architecture is considered desirable. Fluency in English and Portuguese is essential, with Spanish proficiency being an advantage.
Unilever emphasizes the need for strong stakeholder management skills, the ability to influence, and a collaborative approach. Effective communication skills are also paramount. The company is seeking a leader who can motivate and inspire a team, fostering an inclusive and engaging work environment while remaining accountable for delivering results.
The company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is explicitly stated in the job posting, emphasizing that Unilever provides “full and fair consideration to all applicants” regardless of background. The company actively encourages individuals to bring their “Whole Self” to work and offers support to applicants requiring accommodations throughout the recruitment process.
This hiring announcement comes as Unilever continues to navigate a dynamic global landscape, facing evolving consumer preferences and increasing competition. The emphasis on data analytics and S&OP suggests a strategic focus on optimizing supply chain efficiency and responsiveness to market demands within the crucial Latin American region. The region presents both significant opportunities for growth and unique challenges related to economic volatility and logistical complexities.
The role’s focus on FEU and PACE indicates Unilever’s commitment to standardized processes and continuous improvement. The FEU program likely aims to enhance forecasting accuracy and reduce inventory costs, while PACE suggests a broader effort to streamline operations and improve overall efficiency. The integration of these initiatives underscores Unilever’s ambition to leverage data and technology to gain a competitive advantage.
Unilever’s stated purpose – to make sustainable living commonplace – is also reflected in the emphasis on ethical business practices and a diverse and inclusive workplace. This commitment to sustainability is increasingly important to consumers and investors alike, and Unilever’s efforts to integrate these values into its operations are likely to be a key factor in its long-term success.
